Renaissance
Hell Razah Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

(feat. R.A. The Rugged Man, Timbo King & Tragedy Khadafi)

[Intro: Hell Razah]
One-two, one-two, girl you could hear me?
One-two, turn me up

[Verse 1: Hell Razah]
I've been a threat since Benetton Gazelles in Valleys
The Icon in graffiti in the Brooklyn Alley
Touch hearts of the Pharaohs in the Egypt Valley
My Engineer can't see me 'cause the booth is cloudy
Still rowdy even though we in BM's and Audis
Lookin like black Saudis in black Denalis
I'ma terrorist attack when I get on the track
If I'm ridin' shotgun, I need one in my lap
I adapt in any habitat, a BK desert rat
It's war, then we sendin' back bodies and gats
Flip the white flag, homey it get worst than Iraq
We know the CIA game was to frame us wit crack
So each bar's more dope, heroin in my pen
Got a ?Marvin? back robbin', head 'noddin again
Who you shit on to get on top could make it pop in the end
Who's the flop and what's hot got you locked in the Gym
Tell Jacob I spit Jewels I could drop 'em a Gem
And if he's lookin' for a Diamond I could hook 'em wit Timbs

[Hook: Timbo King] & (Hell Razah)
I'm hip-hop before +Suger Hill+ signed a deal
Before Studio 54 poppin' pills
It was real when +Kool Herc+ worked the wills of steel
Now we bring the game back into a New York field
I'm hip-hop before +Suger Hill+ signed a deal
Before Studio 54 poppin' pills
I'm hip-hop - (since +EPMD+ +You Gots to Chill+)
I'm hip-hop - (since +Bestie Boys+ +Licensed to Ill+)

[Verse 2: Tragedy Khadafi]
Yo, I'm Christopher Wallace wit street knowledge
Apostle of the project
Speakerbox wit the G-Packs stuffed in a G's closest
I'm tenement Buildings, cement streets, I'm British Walkers
I'm scuff marks on your brand new Alize
5% Nation of Godbodies greetin' wit peace
I'm raw like Kane, my lyrics are formed in solid rock
Spit it hotter than '86 on drug infested blocks
Last photo of 'Pac before his Beamer got shot
I'm the Queens, one man Supreme Team
Triple beam dream, microphone cream fiend
Top five dead or alive, I'm so amazin'
2-5 costra nostra, heart of this culture
The game ain't over
I'm the truce troop war reporter, legal life stick you
Against All Odds, not the ordinary shit you use to
I'm C-Murder before the life sentence
Predicate felons, homicide chasin' niggaz, hopin' over benches

[Hook: Timbo King]
I'm hip-hop before +Suger Hill+ signed a deal
Before Studio 54 poppin' pills
It was real when +Kool Herc+ worked the wills of steel
Now we bring the game back into a New York field
I'm hip-hop

[Verse 3: R.A. The Rugged Man]
Yes oh yes, I guess, suggest the rest you fess
I'm Tribe Quest, I'm Moe Dee Wild West
Treach, 40, Jazz Jeff, Slick Rick, I'm Doug Fresh
I'm deaf, I'm Canibus before he met Wyclef
Original, I don't bite
I don't need nobody to GhostWrite
Kool G Rap strike the Mic
I Recite the type of hype
That you like, I'm Sweetback
I'm Uptown Saturday Night
I'm Black Ceasar, I'm Rudy Ray Moore, Dolemite
I'm an Assassin rappin'
I'm Grand Wizard Theodore when he invented scratchin'
I'm Wu-Tang, Killa Bee, epitome of Public Enemy
Gamblin', Hustlin', like Smooth and Trigger be bitter, b
Bums diggety-diggety, Das
Literally, I'm Pun in the middle of Little Italy
Didn't do diddly, gettin' me
Listen to me
I'm all good, I'm hood
I'm Ice Cube before he turned soft and went Hollywood
I'm Poetic from Gravediggaz
I'm ODB, I'm Headquarters
I'm Ted Demme, I'm Paul C
If I ain't better than B.I.G., I'm the closest
I'm Richard Pryor before multiple sclerosis
I'm beef, I'm gold teeth, peace
Mantronix, Stetasonic, Symbolic, Bambaata, Soul Sonic
I'm Dre, the Chronic
Melodic with logic Islamic
A poverty prophet
Economy robbery, cock it
I probably properly droppin'
It gotta be honesty
Opposite a novelty, rock it
I Herbie Hancock-it




I'm Onyx Throwin' Ya Gun
I'm Funky 4 + 1

Overall Meaning

The song "Renaissance" by Hell Razah featuring R.A. The Rugged Man, Timbo King, and Tragedy Khadafi is a piece that pays homage to the roots of hip-hop and the greats who came before this generation. The lyrics are poetic, showing the artists' lyrical prowess and ability to paint vivid images with words. Hell Razah speaks in the first verse about his roots as a threat since wearing Benetton Gazelles in Valleys and being an icon in graffiti in the Brooklyn Alley. His words have touched the hearts of the Pharaohs in the Egypt Valley, and even his engineer can't see him because the booth is cloudy. He is still rowdy even though he is riding in BMs and Audis, looking like black Saudis in black Denalis. Tragedy Khadafi delivers a powerful verse about his role as Christopher Wallace with street knowledge, a warrior from the projects who has been shaped by experience. He talks about his journey, passing through tenement buildings, cement streets, and scuff marks on brand new Alize, and he is a 5% Nation of Godbodies greeting with peace. R.A. The Rugged Man brings it home with a verse that pays tribute to hip-hop legends and pioneers, from Tribe Quest to Moe Dee Wild West, from Treach, Jazz Jeff, and Slick Rick to Grand Wizard Theodore when he invented scratching.


The song's message is that hip-hop is a movement, an art form that has grown from the roots of its pioneers, who have paved the way for future generations. In this song, the artists show their admiration for those who have come before, paying respect to DJs like Kool Herc who worked the wills of steel and trailblazers like EPMD and Bestie Boys who made an indelible mark on the industry. They also speak out against the evils that have oppressed hip-hop, such as the CIA's efforts to frame them with crack.


Line by Line Meaning

I've been a threat since Benetton Gazelles in Valleys
I have been dangerous and influential since the days when I wore Benetton Gazelle sneakers in the Valleys.


The Icon in graffiti in the Brooklyn Alley
I am a legendary figure in the graffiti scene in Brooklyn, known for my iconic tags.


Touch hearts of the Pharaohs in the Egypt Valley
I have the ability to inspire and move even ancient Egyptian pharaohs with my music and artistry.


My Engineer can't see me 'cause the booth is cloudy
I am so dominant and powerful in the recording booth that even my engineer can't fully comprehend or keep up with my talent.


Still rowdy even though we in BM's and Audis
Despite our success and wealth, we still maintain our wild and rebellious nature, even driving luxury BM's and Audis.


Lookin like black Saudis in black Denalis
We exude an air of power and wealth, resembling black members of the Saudi royal family, driving black Denali SUVs.


I'ma terrorist attack when I get on the track
When I step on the music track, I bring an explosive and impactful energy, like a terrorist attack on the senses.


If I'm ridin' shotgun, I need one in my lap
If I'm sitting in the passenger seat of a car, I always have a gun on my lap for protection.


I adapt in any habitat, a BK desert rat
I can survive and thrive in any environment, even the harsh and unforgiving streets of Brooklyn.


It's war, then we sendin' back bodies and gats
If it's a war, we will retaliate by causing casualties and using weapons.


Flip the white flag, homey it get worse than Iraq
If you surrender and raise the white flag, things will only get worse for you than the situation in Iraq.


We know the CIA game was to frame us wit crack
We are aware that the CIA's involvement in the drug trade was an attempt to manipulate and control us, particularly with the use of crack cocaine.


So each bar's more dope, heroin in my pen
Every line I write is more addictive and powerful, comparable to the effects of heroin.


Got a ?Marvin? back robbin', head 'noddin again
I have a team member named Marvin who is involved in robberies and drug use, showing signs of addiction through nodding his head.


Who you shit on to get on top could make it pop in the end
The people you disrespect or betray in order to achieve success will ultimately come back to haunt you and cause your downfall.


Who's the flop and what's hot got you locked in the Gym
Those who have failed to make an impact and those who are currently popular have you confined to the gym, working hard to improve and compete.


Tell Jacob I spit Jewels I could drop 'em a Gem
Inform Jacob that I speak profound truths and wisdom, capable of impressing even him, a symbol of wealth and status.


And if he's lookin' for a Diamond I could hook 'em wit Timbs
If he is in search of something valuable and rare, I can provide him with not only diamonds but also Timberland boots, representing my connection to the streets.


I'm hip-hop before +Suger Hill+ signed a deal
I embody the essence and authenticity of hip-hop even before the record label Suger Hill signed its first deal.


Before Studio 54 poppin' pills
I represent the era of hip-hop that predates the excessive drug use and partying associated with Studio 54.


It was real when +Kool Herc+ worked the wills of steel
The true essence of hip-hop was alive and authentic when DJ Kool Herc was pioneering the art form with his turntables and records.


Now we bring the game back into a New York field
Together, we are reviving and rejuvenating the hip-hop industry, specifically in New York, by delivering authentic and meaningful music.


Yo, I'm Christopher Wallace wit street knowledge
I possess the intelligence and wisdom of the late rapper Christopher Wallace, also known as The Notorious B.I.G., who was highly aware of the streets and their realities.


Apostle of the project
I am a leader and influencer within the community, representing the voice of the marginalized and underprivileged.


Speakerbox wit the G-Packs stuffed in a G's closest
My music is powerful and influential, containing messages and stories about the struggles and illegal activities present in the streets.


I'm tenement Buildings, cement streets, I'm British Walkers
I am a symbol of the housing projects and the rough concrete streets, valueable and grounded like the British Walkers shoes.


I'm scuff marks on your brand new Alize
I represent the imperfections and realities of life, leaving scuff marks on the surface of glamorous and luxurious things like the brand new Alize liquor.


5% Nation of Godbodies greetin' wit peace
I am aligned with the Five Percent Nation, a movement that advocates for self-knowledge and empowerment, and I spread messages of peace and unity.


I'm raw like Kane, my lyrics are formed in solid rock
My lyricism is powerful and untamed, similar to the rapper Big Daddy Kane, and my words are like solid rock, unbreakable and everlasting.


Spit it hotter than '86 on drug infested blocks
I deliver my rhymes with such intensity and passion that it surpasses the heat and chaos of the drug-infested streets of 1986.


Last photo of 'Pac before his Beamer got shot
I represent the final moments and legacy of the rapper Tupac Shakur before his car was shot at, symbolizing the tragic end of a talented artist.


I'm the Queens, one man Supreme Team
I am the embodiment of the notorious criminal organization known as the Supreme Team from Queens, New York, representing their power and influence in the streets.


Triple beam dream, microphone cream fiend
I have dreams of wealth and success, like balancing a triple beam scale, and I have an insatiable desire for rhymes and the art of rap.


Top five dead or alive, I'm so amazin'
I am regarded as one of the top five greatest rappers to ever live, an astounding and incredible talent.


2-5 costra nostra, heart of this culture
I am deeply connected to the Italian-American criminal organization, the Mafia, which is an integral part of the hip-hop culture and its history in New York City.


The game ain't over
The music industry is constantly evolving and changing, but I am here to remind you that the game is far from being finished or conquered.


I'm the truce troop war reporter, legal life stick you
I am the correspondent and chronicler of the truce between warring factions, shedding light on the realities of street life and its legal consequences.


Against All Odds, not the ordinary shit you use to
I am not your typical or ordinary artist, facing and overcoming extreme challenges and obstacles, surpassing expectations.


I'm C-Murder before the life sentence
I represent C-Murder, a rapper who was convicted and sentenced to life in prison, embodying the consequences and realities of a life of crime.


Predicate felons, homicide chasin' niggaz, hopin' over benches
I am surrounded by and associated with individuals who have committed serious crimes, including murder, and I have witnessed the chaos and danger they bring, often having to flee from the scene.


Yes oh yes, I guess, suggest the rest you fess
I confidently and assuredly proclaim my skills and superiority, challenging others to admit and confess their inferiority.


I'm Tribe Quest, I'm Moe Dee Wild West
I embody the spirit and style of the hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest, as well as the pioneering rapper Moe Dee and his groundbreaking album Wild Wild West.


Treach, 40, Jazz Jeff, Slick Rick, I'm Doug Fresh
I am a combination of the styles and influences of rappers Treach, E-40, DJ Jazzy Jeff, Slick Rick, and Doug E. Fresh, representing the best elements of each artist.


I'm deaf, I'm Canibus before he met Wyclef
I am oblivious to the opinions and criticism of others, similar to the rapper Canibus before his collaboration with Wyclef Jean, which was met with mixed reactions.


Original, I don't bite
I am original in my style and approach, refusing to imitate or copy others.


I don't need nobody to GhostWrite
I am capable of writing my own lyrics without any assistance or ghostwriters, maintaining my authenticity and integrity.


Kool G Rap strike the Mic
I possess the lyrical prowess and impact of rapper Kool G Rap, who has a reputation for his undeniable skills on the microphone.


I Recite the type of hype
I deliver verses and rhymes that are filled with excitement, anticipation, and energy.


That you like, I'm Sweetback
I cater to your tastes and preferences, providing an experience that satisfies and pleases you, like the character Sweetback from the film 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song.'


I'm Uptown Saturday Night
I am reminiscent of the vibrant and lively atmosphere of uptown New York City on a Saturday night, full of energy and excitement.


I'm Black Ceasar, I'm Rudy Ray Moore, Dolemite
I encapsulate the essence and spirit of Black Ceasar, a film about a Harlem gangster, and the legendary comedian Rudy Ray Moore and his iconic character Dolemite.


I'm an Assassin rappin'
I am an incredibly skilled and deadly rapper, similar to an assassin who operates with precision and accuracy.


I'm Grand Wizard Theodore when he invented scratchin'
I represent the pioneering DJ Grand Wizard Theodore, who is credited with inventing and popularizing the scratching technique in hip-hop music.


I'm Wu-Tang, Killa Bee, epitome of Public Enemy
I embody the essence and spirit of the Wu-Tang Clan, a rap group associated with the symbols of the killer bee and the influential rap group Public Enemy.


Gamblin', Hustlin', like Smooth and Trigger be bitter, b
I engage in risky behavior and constantly seek opportunities for success, similar to the characters Smooth and Trigger from the film 'Super Fly.'


Bums diggety-diggety, Das
I am a highly skilled and respected rapper, leaving inferior artists in a state of awe and disbelief.


Literally, I'm Pun in the middle of Little Italy
I embody the powerful and impactful presence of the rapper Big Pun, located in the heart of Little Italy, a neighborhood in New York City.


Didn't do diddly, gettin' me
I have achieved greatness and success without putting in minimal effort or struggling.


Listen to me
Pay attention and heed my words, as I have something important to say.


I'm all good, I'm hood
I am confident and secure in my identity, proud of my roots in the streets and the ghetto.


I'm Ice Cube before he turned soft and went Hollywood
I represent the raw and aggressive persona of Ice Cube before he transitioned to a more mainstream and commercial sound in Hollywood.


I'm Poetic from Gravediggaz
I possess the lyrical prowess and creativity of the rapper Poetic from the group Gravediggaz, known for his dark and poetic rhymes.


I'm ODB, I'm Headquarters
I embody the unpredictable and eccentric nature of rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard, also known as ODB, as well as the iconic New York City hip-hop radio show Headquarters.


I'm Ted Demme, I'm Paul C
I embody the spirit and creativity of Ted Demme, a filmmaker known for his work in the hip-hop community, and the influential record producer Paul C, who worked with many legendary artists.


If I ain't better than B.I.G., I'm the closest
If I am not superior to The Notorious B.I.G., I am at least the closest in terms of skill and impact.


I'm Richard Pryor before multiple sclerosis
I represent the comedy and brilliance of Richard Pryor before he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, symbolizing his decline in health and career.


I'm beef, I'm gold teeth, peace
I am associated with confrontations and conflicts, as well as the jewelry style of gold teeth, but ultimately aim for peace and harmony.


Mantronix, Stetasonic, Symbolic, Bambaata, Soul Sonic
I embody the innovation and creativity of legendary groups in hip-hop history, including Mantronix, Stetasonic, Symbolic, Afrika Bambaataa, and the Soul Sonic Force.


I'm Dre, the Chronic
I possess the musical genius and influence of Dr. Dre, specifically his groundbreaking album 'The Chronic.'


Melodic with logic Islamic
I deliver my rhymes with a melodic flow and intelligent, thoughtful content, often referencing Islamic teachings and ideologies.


A poverty prophet
I am a prophet and spokesperson for those living in poverty, speaking on their behalf and shedding light on their struggles.


Economy robbery, cock it
I engage in metaphorical robbery and exploitation of the economic system, highlighting its flaws and advocating for change.


I probably properly droppin'
I consistently and effectively release and deliver my music and rhymes in a skillful and impactful manner.


It gotta be honesty
Authenticity and honesty are essential in my artistic expression, ensuring that my words and music have a genuine impact.


Opposite a novelty, rock it
I am the opposite of a novelty or gimmick, bringing a fresh and authentic energy to the industry.


I Herbie Hancock-it
I embody the creativity and innovation of jazz musician Herbie Hancock, consistently pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds.


I'm Onyx Throwin' Ya Gun
I possess the aggressive and confrontational style of the rap group Onyx, specifically their song 'Throw Ya Gunz.'


I'm Funky 4 + 1
I embody the energy and style of the rap group Funky 4 + 1, known for their influential presence during the early years of hip-hop.




Contributed by Zoe F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found

More Versions